The New York Rangers have Plenty to be Thankful For
By Marvin Azrak
The Breadman:
Artemi Panarin switched things up and traded the flow for a bold bald look after a tough playoff run. But guess what? He’s bounced back this season, becoming the Rangers’ shining star.
He has 10 goals and 26 points in just 17 games and had a franchise record setting 15-game point streak to kick off the year. And let’s not forget his magic touch with Alexis Lafreniere, who’s riding the wave and sitting pretty with 8 goals, thanks to Panarin’s playmaking prowess.
Panarin has a new mentality this season – shoot first, ask questions later. With a whopping 71 shots on goal, he’s playing more aggressively than ever, like a man on a mission. He’s not just a scoring machine; he’s stepped up defensively, turning it into more offensive magic.
Call him the total package because that’s what he is. He’s thrown himself right into the Hart Trophy conversation. Panarin’s not just having a good season; he’s having a breakout year, and we’re all here for the feast he’s cooking up on the ice!
Lavy’s Lounge (Credit to Blue Collar Blueshirts for this one):
Peter Laviolette has been a breath of Fresh air. It’s not just what he’s been doing to motivate the players on the ice with his fiery locker room speeches, end of practice huddles, or tactics. It’s also what he’s done off the ice. He’s been articulate when talking to the Media. He’s shown his passion with postgame hugs. He’s allowed players to be themselves as long as they work hard. His practices are intense, and each drill has a purpose. He’s also taught me a lesson about ensuring you have peak communication with anyone you work with.
That wasn’t the case under Gerard Gallant, who had short practices, not much structure, and didn’t want to get personal with payers. There’s no disrespect. That helps, too, because it allows players to be loose. Unfortunately, he wasn’t the right boss for the Blueshirts. There have been several games this season where the Rangers have had to rely on backchecking, defense, and overall structure. They wouldn’t have won those under Gallant. Laviolette has emphasized playing a north-south brand of hockey instead of East-West. It’s been refreshing everywhere. With New York atop the standings, he’s put himself in the Jack Adams conversation.